gone amiss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gone amiss" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something has gone wrong or is not as it should be. Example: "I noticed that my keys were missing, and I began to worry that something had gone amiss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"Something seriously has gone amiss," said Eoannou.

The Guardian - Sport

A touch of anger wouldn't have gone amiss; sometimes, you want to feel a writer's engine thrum.

The Guardian - Books

Of course there are concrete indicators that things have gone amiss -- nausea abates, breast pain dwindles -- but those had not yet occurred.

The New York Times - Magazine

Perhaps one or two more Beatles big guns wouldn't have gone amiss, but the busker standing outside the venue helpfully obliges.

The Guardian - Music

"He's a very smart guy and he realizes something has gone amiss and he's trying to figure out how to get it back on track".

The New York Times

The door opens and, guess what, Sharon is standing there wearing an expression, apparently, that wouldn't have gone amiss on the face of Catherine the Great.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

And Dave Watson wouldn't go amiss either.

The Guardian - Sport

A little human warmth can never go amiss, after all.

The Guardian - Books

And a teleporter wouldn't go amiss, either.

The Guardian

Several three- and four-parters wouldn't go amiss either.

The Guardian

A green salad wouldn't go amiss, either.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gone amiss", ensure the context clearly establishes what was expected or intended. This provides a clear contrast to the current, undesirable state.

Common error

Avoid using "gone amiss" in very casual conversations. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or even pretentious in everyday settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "gone wrong" or "messed up" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gone amiss" functions as a predicate within a sentence. It typically describes a situation or object that has deviated from the expected state. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is a grammatically correct construction.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gone amiss" is a grammatically sound way to indicate that something has deviated from the expected course. While not as common as its simpler counterpart "gone wrong", it adds a touch of formality and subtlety to writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is considered correct and usable in various contexts, particularly in news and media, and science. It's important to consider the audience and context when choosing between "gone amiss" and its more common alternatives to ensure the tone aligns with the overall message. When deciding to use the phrase "gone amiss", bear in mind its register is neutral to slightly formal. This knowledge will ensure effective communication within different settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Gone wrong

This alternative is a common and direct synonym, indicating a failure or undesirable outcome.

Gone awry

This alternative is a more formal synonym, suggesting a plan or situation has deviated from its intended course.

Not worked out

This alternative is a simple and direct way of saying something has failed.

Taken a turn for the worse

This alternative suggests a situation has deteriorated or become more problematic.

Gone sideways

This alternative is more informal, implying something has unexpectedly deviated from the plan.

Turned sour

This alternative suggests a relationship or situation has become unpleasant or negative.

Fallen through

This alternative specifically refers to plans or arrangements that have failed to materialize.

Hit a snag

This alternative indicates a minor problem or obstacle has arisen.

Become unstuck

This alternative implies a process or plan has encountered an unexpected and disruptive problem.

Come to naught

This alternative is a more literary expression, suggesting efforts have been unsuccessful.

FAQs

What does "gone amiss" mean?

The phrase "gone amiss" means that something has "gone wrong" or is not as it should be. It implies a problem or an error has occurred.

How can I use "gone amiss" in a sentence?

You can use "gone amiss" in a sentence to indicate that something has deviated from the expected or desired outcome. For example: "I noticed that my keys were missing, and I began to worry that something had "gone amiss".

What are some alternatives to "gone amiss"?

Some alternatives to "gone amiss" include "gone wrong", "gone awry", or "taken a turn for the worse". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is "gone amiss" formal or informal?

"Gone amiss" is generally considered to be slightly more formal than alternatives like "gone wrong". It is suitable for both professional and general contexts where a touch of formality is appropriate.